Cryptoxanthin
Hydroxy-β-carotene, E161c, 161c, (R)-all-trans-β-Caroten-3-ol
- CAS
- 472-70-8
- EC
- 200-001-8
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Nutraceuticals & Supplements, Personal Care & Cosmetics
Cryptoxanthin (CAS 472-70-8) is a provitamin A carotenoid traded as E161c, a red to dark red solid that occurs as garnet-red prisms with metallic luster and is used as a colorant in juices, dairy and confectionery and as an antioxidant pigment in skin creams and serums. It presents as garnet-red prisms with metallic luster, density 0.974 g/cm³ at 20 °C, melting point 160 °C, and refractive index approximately 1.48; soluble in chloroform, benzene, and pyridine; slightly soluble in alcohol and methanol. Classified as a provitamin A carotenoid, it is traded in food-grade and supplement-grade forms conforming to E161c specifications.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C40H56O |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 552.87 g/mol |
| Form | Solid |
| Color | Red to dark red |
| Melting point | 160 °C |
| Density | 0.974±0.06 g/cm3 (20 °C 760 Torr) |
| HS code | 29062990 |
| Grades available | Food Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Cryptoxanthin
Applications
- Food & Beverage: E161c colorant for juices, dairy, confectionery
- Nutraceuticals & Supplements: provitamin A source in carotenoid supplement formulations Personal Care & Cosmetics: antioxidant pigment in skin creams and serums
- Pharmaceuticals: natural pigment for capsule and tablet coating
- Animal Feed: carotenoid pigment and provitamin A in premixes
Safety & Risks
Not classified under GHS; low acute hazard. Avoid inhalation of dust; use standard PPE including gloves and eye protection. Store away from light, heat, and oxidising agents in sealed containers.
Packaging
Supplied in 25 kg drums or cartons; 1–5 kg small-lot options available. Store cool, dry, and protected from light.